Give Joy

That was the name of the volunteer project that the Kostroma Ministry Center participants were involved in last week as part of the Christmas celebration. They reached out to over a hundred local kids with disabilities by helping them feel special during the Christmas Season. They arranged games and brought gifts. I was touched by what the Director of the orphanage for kids with special needs had to say about it: "We're very grateful to the Ministry Center participants for arranging such a marvelous festival for our kids. It was such a surprise for them because we do not have guests who come and give their time and attention to the kids very often. The time spent together was more important for our kids than any gifts". And even more touching was Vanya's feedback: "It was my first time in an orphanage for kids with special needs. I realized that there are children whose life is even harder than ours. It was great to see these kids enjoy our visit. I would love to have fun with them again." Christmas time is about giving and I rejoice seeing our kids giving a gift of love to others.

Founded in 2008, Orphan’s Tree is an alliance of Americans and Russians who want to change life for orphans, ages 16 and older. We are driven by God’s call to look after orphans and to be a father to the fatherless.